Tinubu sets for UK on first Nigerian State Visit in nearly four decades
President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja on Tuesday for a historic state visit to the United Kingdom at the invitation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
The President will be accompanied by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for the visit, which will include a series of high-level engagements aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between both countries.
During the visit, King Charles III will host President Tinubu and the First Lady at Windsor Castle from March 18 to March 19. The trip marks the first state visit by a Nigerian leader to the United Kingdom in 37 years and the first time a Nigerian President will be received by a British monarch at Windsor Castle.
According to a statement by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga on Monday, the visit is intended to deepen longstanding ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, with discussions expected to focus on immigration, trade, investment, and cultural cooperation.
As part of the programme, President Tinubu and his wife will view a special exhibition at Windsor Castle featuring items from the Royal Collection connected to Nigeria. The President is also expected to hold private talks with the British monarch and engage with organisations involved in interfaith dialogue.
A state banquet will also be hosted in honour of the Nigerian delegation.
President Tinubu is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street. The meeting is expected to result in the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding covering trade, investment, defence, and cultural cooperation.
During the visit, the President will also witness the signing of a £746 million financing agreement between UK Export Finance, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and the Federal Ministry of Finance. The deal is aimed at supporting the rehabilitation of key maritime infrastructure, including the Lagos Port Complex (Apapa Quays) and the Tin Can Island Port Complex.
